Air processing device

ABSTRACT

An air processing device includes: a casing; a component detachably provided on a body of the casing; and an imaging device that acquires image data of at least one predetermined object to be imaged in the casing. The imaging device is supported by the component so as to be located at a position at which the imaging device can image the object to be imaged.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to an air processing device.

BACKGROUND ART

An air processing device such as an air-conditioning device has been widely known in the art. Patent Document 1 discloses a technique for acquiring image data of a predetermined object to be imaged inside a casing of an air-conditioning device.

The air-conditioning device of Patent Document 1 includes a camera (an imaging device) installed inside a casing of an indoor unit. The camera is positioned such that a target object (such as a filter) can be imaged. Image data of the target object imaged by the camera is output to a centralized monitor via a LAN. A service provider or any other operator can check the image data transmitted to the central monitor to determine the state of the target object (e.g., clogging and breakage of the filter, and how the filter is installed).

CITATION LIST Patent Document

Patent Document 1: Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2007-46864

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Technical Problem

In the air processing device described above, in order to acquire image data of an object to be imaged by a camera, it is necessary to attach the camera to a predetermined place in the casing. In this case, it is necessary to align and attach the camera in the casing, and there is a problem in that these operations are complicated.

An object of the present disclosure is to propose an air processing device including an imaging device that can be easily installed in a casing.

Solution to the Problem

The first aspect is directed to an air processing device including: a casing (20); a component (45, 51, 66, 130) detachably provided on a body (20 a) of the casing (20); and an imaging device (70) that acquires image data of at least one predetermined object (40, 43, 45, 60, 66) to be imaged in the casing (20), the imaging device (70) being supported by the component (45, 51, 66, 130) so as to be located at a position at which the imaging device (70) can image the at least one object (40, 43, 45, 60, 66) to be imaged.

In the first aspect, the imaging device (70) is attached to the component (45, 51, 66, 130) detached from the body (20 a) of the casing (20), and the component (45, 51, 66, 130) are thereafter attached to the body (20 a). In this state, the imaging device (70) is supported by the component (45, 51, 66, 130) so as to be at a position at which the imaging device (70) can image the object (40, 43, 45, 60, 66). Therefore, in this aspect, the imaging device (70) can be set to a desired position without alignment and attachment of the imaging device (70) in the casing (20). Accordingly, the imaging device (70) can be easily installed.

The second aspect according to the first aspect is directed to an air processing device, wherein the casing (20) includes a body (20 a) and a casing member (51, 130) detachably provided in the body (20 a), and the component (45, 51, 66, 130) is the casing member (51, 130).

In the second aspect, the casing member (51, 130) is attached to, or detached from, the body (20 a) of the casing (20). The imaging device (70) is attached to the casing member (51, 130) detached from the body (20 a) of the casing (20), and the casing member (51, 130) is thereafter attached to the body (20 a). In this state, the imaging device (70) is located at a position at which the imaging device (70) can image the object (40, 43, 45, 60, 66).

The third aspect according to the second aspect is directed to an air processing device, wherein the casing member (51, 130) is an inspection cover (51) that opens and closes an inspection hole (50) of the casing (20).

In the third aspect, when the inspection cover (51) is attached to the body (20 a) of the casing (20) with the imaging device (70) supported by the inspection cover (51), the inspection hole (50) is closed by the inspection cover (51), and the imaging device (70) is located at a position at which the imaging device (70) can image the object (40, 43, 45, 60, 66). Therefore, the imaging device (70) can be set to a desired position without alignment and attachment of the imaging device (70) in the casing (20). Accordingly, the imaging device (70) can be easily installed.

The fourth aspect according to the second or third aspect is directed to an air processing device, further including a support (53) that is fixed to an inner wall (51 a) of the casing member (51, 130) and to which the imaging device (70) is attached.

In the fourth aspect, the inner wall of the casing member (51, 130) is provided with the support (53), and the imaging device (70) is attached to this support (53). Depending on the length and shape of the support (53), the position of the imaging device (70) in the casing (20) can be adjusted.

The fifth aspect according to the fourth aspect is directed to an air processing device, wherein the support (53) is welded to the inner wall (51 a) of the casing member (51, 130).

In the fifth aspect, the support (53) is fixed to the inspection cover (51) by welding. In this manner, the support (53) can be fixed to the inner wall (51 a) of the casing member (51, 130) without providing a fixing hole in the inspection cover (51). Therefore, it is not required to deal with heat penetration from or seal the fixing hole.

The sixth aspect according to the fourth aspect is directed to an air processing device, wherein the support (53) is fastened to the inner wall (51 a) of the casing member (51, 130) with at least two fastening members.

In the sixth aspect, the support (53) is fixed to the inspection cover (51) with at least two fastening members. With at least two fastening members, the casing member (51, 130) and the support (53) can be relatively aligned to desired positions reliably. Accordingly, with the casing member (51, 130) attached to the body (20 a) of the casing (20), the imaging device (70) and the object to be imaged can also be relatively aligned to desired positions reliably.

The seventh aspect according to any one of the first to sixth aspects is directed to an air processing device, further including a wireless communication section (77) that wirelessly transmits image data acquired by the imaging device (70) to the outside of the casing (20).

In the seventh aspect, image data acquired by the imaging device (70) are transmitted outside the casing (20) by the wireless communication section (77). It is thus not necessary to route an image data transmission wire from the inside of the casing (20) to the outside.

The eighth aspect according to any one of the first to seventh aspects is directed to an air processing device further including: a transmission line (91) that transmits image data acquired by the imaging device (70) to the outside of the casing (20) in a wired manner; and a wireless communication section (77) that wirelessly transmits output data from the transmission line (91) to a predetermined receiver (80), the wireless communication section (77) being disposed outside the casing (20).

In the eighth aspect, image data acquired by the imaging device (70) is transmitted outside the casing (20) via the transmission line (91). Then, the image data is transmitted to the receiver (80) by the wireless communication section (77) outside the casing (20). When the wireless communication section (77) is provided in the casing (20), the transmission of image data from the inside of the casing (20) to the outside may be prevented by the casing (20). In contrast, in the present invention, image data is transmitted to the outside of the casing (20) in a wired manner, and this image data is thereafter wirelessly transmitted to the receiver (80). The image data thus can be reliably transmitted to the receiver (80).

The ninth aspect according to any one of the first to eighth aspects is directed to an air processing device including: a wire (56) one end of which is connected to the imaging device (70) and that is extended to the outside of the casing (20), wherein the other end of the wire (56) is provided with a connector (56 a) coupled with external wire (86).

In the ninth aspect, the wire (56) connected to the imaging device (70) is provided outside the casing (20) and is coupled with the external wire (86) via the connector (56 a). The imaging device (70) thus can be easily wired.

The tenth aspect according to any one of the first to ninth aspects is directed to an air processing device, wherein the imaging device (70) includes a wide-angle or fisheye lens (71).

In the tenth aspect, the imaging device (70) images the object (40, 43, 45, 60, 66) to be imaged with a wide-angle or fisheye lens (71). This allows the angle of view and the imaging area of the imaging device (70) to be wider.

The eleventh aspect according to any one of the first to tenth aspects is directed to an air processing device, wherein the imaging device (70) includes a lens (71) and a light source (72) located behind the lens (71) in the imaging direction.

In the eleventh aspect, the light source (72) is located behind the lens (71). This avoids the light source (72) from entering the imaging area of the imaging device (70).

The twelfth aspect according to any one of the first to eleventh aspects is directed to an air processing device, wherein the at least one object (40, 43, 45, 60, 66) to be imaged includes at least one of a drain pan (60), a drain port, a drain pump (66), a float switch, or a humidifying element (45).

In the twelfth aspect, the imaging device (70) acquires image data of at least one of a drain pan (60), a drain port, a drain pump (66), a float switch, or a humidifying element (45). Accordingly, on the basis of this image data, the dirt and growth of bacteria and fungi in the drain pan (60), the dirt and clogging in the drain port, the breakage of the drain pump (66), and the dirt and growth of bacteria and fungi in the humidifying element (45), and breakage of the humidifying element (45) can be checked.

In the thirteenth aspect according to any one of the first to twelfth aspects, the imaging device (70) is disposed at a position at which air at a flow velocity that is 30% of an average flow velocity Va of air blown out of the casing (20) flows.

In the thirteenth aspect, the flow velocity of air at a position at which the imaging device (70) is disposed is relatively low. Accordingly, the dirt on the lens of the imaging device (70) due to adhesion of dust and the like in the air can be reduced.

In the fourteenth aspect according to any one of the first to thirteenth aspects, the lens (71) of the imaging device (70) faces downstream of the air flow.

In the fourteenth aspect, the lens (71) of the imaging device (70) faces downstream of the air flow. Accordingly, the dirt on the lens (71) due to adhesion of dust and the like in the air can be reduced.

Advantages of the Invention

In these aspects, an imaging device (70) is supported by component (45, 51, 66, 130), and the component (45, 51, 66, 130) are attached to a casing (20). This allows the imaging device (70) to be aligned to a position at which the imaging device (70) can image object (40, 43, 45, 60, 66) to be imaged. Therefore, the imaging device (70) can be set to a desired position, and installation of the imaging device (70) can be simplified.

For example, an imaging device (70) can also be attached to a predetermined position of each of already existing component (45, 51, 66, 130) in an already-existing air processing device having no imaging device (70). In this case, the image data of the predetermined imaging device (70) can be acquired by this imaging device (70) without separately attaching a component for supporting the imaging device (70) in the casing (20) of the already existing air processing device. Therefore, the imaging function according to the present aspects can be easily applied to the already existing air processing device.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a plan view illustrating an internal structure of an air-conditioning device according to a first embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a front view illustrating the air-conditioning device according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 3 is a longitudinal sectional view illustrating the internal structure of the air-conditioning device according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view illustrating a schematic configuration of a portion of the air-conditioning device near a front panel according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view illustrating an internal structure of an inspection cover according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of an imaging system according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 7 is a plan view illustrating an internal structure of an air-conditioning device according to a second embodiment.

FIG. 8 is a sectional view illustrating the internal structure of the air-conditioning device according to the second embodiment.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view illustrating a schematic configuration of a portion of the air-conditioning device near a front panel according to the second embodiment.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view illustrating an internal structure of an inspection cover according to the second embodiment.

FIG. 11 shows a block diagram illustrating a configuration of the imaging system of a first variation.

FIG. 12 shows a block diagram illustrating a configuration of the imaging system of a second variation.

FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of an imaging system according to a third variation.

FIG. 14 is a timing chart showing timings of actions of components according to the third variation.

FIG. 15 is a timing chart showing timings of actions of components according to a first control example of the third variation.

FIG. 16 is a timing chart showing timings of actions of components according to a second control example of the third variation.

FIG. 17 is a timing chart showing timings of actions of components according to a third control example of the third variation.

FIG. 18 is a timing chart showing timings of actions of components according to a fourth control example of the third variation.

FIG. 19 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of an imaging system according to a fourth variation.

FIG. 20 is an enlarged schematic plan view of a periphery of an imaging device according to the fifth variation.

FIG. 21 is an enlarged schematic plan view of a periphery of an imaging device according to the seventh variation.

FIG. 22 is an enlarged schematic plan view of a periphery of an imaging device according to the eighth variation.

FIG. 23 is a perspective view illustrating a schematic configuration of an adjustment mechanism of a camera.

FIG. 24 is a perspective view illustrating a positional relationship between a camera and a light source.

FIG. 25 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of an air-conditioning device according to the third embodiment.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Embodiments of the present disclosure are described below with reference to the drawings. The following embodiments are merely exemplary ones in nature, and are not intended to limit the scope, applications, or use of the present invention.

First Embodiment

An air processing device according to the first embodiment is an air-conditioning device (10). The air-conditioning device (10) adjusts at least the temperature of air. Specifically, the air-conditioning device (10) adjusts the temperature of room air (RA), and supplies the temperature-adjusted air as supply air (SA) into the room. The air-conditioning device (10) includes an indoor unit (11) installed in a space in the ceiling cavity. The indoor unit (11) is connected to an outdoor unit (not shown) through refrigerant pipes. Thus, the air-conditioning device (10) forms a refrigerant circuit. The refrigerant circuit is filled with a refrigerant that circulates to perform a vapor compression refrigeration cycle. The outdoor unit is provided with a compressor and an outdoor heat exchanger that are connected to the refrigerant circuit, and an outdoor fan that corresponds to the outdoor heat exchanger.

Indoor Unit

As illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 3, the indoor unit (11) includes a casing (20) installed in the ceiling cavity, and a fan (40) and an indoor heat exchanger (43) both housed in the casing (20). The casing (20) includes therein a drain pan (60) collecting condensed water generated from air in the casing (20), and a drain pump (66) for discharging water accumulated in the drain pan (60).

Casing

The casing (20) has the shape of a rectangular parallelepiped hollow box. The casing (20) includes a top plate (21), a bottom plate (22), and four side plates (23, 24, 25, 26). The four side plates include a front panel (23), a rear panel (24), a first side panel (25), and a second side panel (26). The front and rear panels (23) and (24) face each other. The first and second side panels (25) and (26) face each other.

The front panel (23) faces a maintenance space (15). The front panel (23) is provided with an electric component box (16), an inspection hole (50), and an inspection cover (51) (which will be described in detail below). The first side panel (25) has a suction port (31). A suction duct (not shown) is connected to the suction port (31). The inlet end of the suction duct communicates with an indoor space. The second side panel (26) has a blow-out port (32). A blow-out duct (not shown) is connected to the blow-out port (32). The blow-out end of the exhaust duct is connected to the indoor space. The casing (20) has therein an air flow path (33) between the suction port (31) and the blow-out port (32).

Fan

The fan (40) is disposed in a portion of the air flow path (33) near the first side panel (25). The fan (40) transfers air in the air flow path (33). In this embodiment, three sirocco fans (41) are driven by one motor (42) (see FIG. 1).

Indoor Heat Exchanger

The indoor heat exchanger (43) is disposed in a portion of the air flow path (33) near the second side panel (26). The indoor heat exchanger (43) is configured as, for example, a fin-and-tube heat exchanger. The indoor heat exchanger (43) of this embodiment is arranged obliquely. The indoor heat exchanger (43) serving as an evaporator constitutes a cooling portion that cools air.

Drain Pan

As schematically illustrated in FIG. 3, the drain pan (60) is disposed under the indoor heat exchanger (43) to extend along the bottom plate (22). The drain pan (60) includes a first side wall (61), a second side wall (62), and a bottom portion (63). The first side wall (61) is located upstream of the indoor heat exchanger (43). The second side wall (62) is located downstream of the indoor heat exchanger (43). The bottom portion (63) extends from the first side wall (61) to the second side wall (62). The bottom portion (63) has a concave portion (64) having a substantially trapezoidal cross section near the center of the bottom portion (63). In the drain pan (60), the bottom surface of the concave portion (64) is lowest in height. In other words, the concave portion (64) includes the deepest point of the drain pan (60).

Drain Pump

A drain pump (66) is disposed inside the drain pan (60). Specifically, a suction portion (66 a) of the drain pump (66) is disposed inside the concave portion (64) of the drain pan (60). A discharge port of the drain pump (66) is connected to the inlet end of a drain pipe (67). The drain pipe (67) passes through the front panel (23) of the casing (20) in a horizontal direction. When the drain pump (66) starts operating, condensed water accumulated in the drain pan (60) is pumped up. The water pumped up is discharged to the outside of the casing (20) through the drain pipe (67).

Electric Component Box

As illustrated in FIG. 1, the electric component box (16) is disposed on a portion of the front panel (23) near the fan (40). The electric component box (16) houses therein a printed board (17) on which a power supply circuit, a control circuit, and any other circuit are mounted, wires respectively connected to the circuits, a high-voltage power source, a low-voltage power source, and other components. The electric component box (16) includes a box body (16 a) having a front surface with an opening, and an electric component cover (16 b) opening and closing the opening surface of the box body (16 a). The electric component cover (16 b) forms a portion of the front panel (23). Detaching the electric component cover (16 b) allows the inside of the electric component box (16) to be exposed to the maintenance space (15).

Inspection Hole and Inspection Cover

As illustrated in FIG. 1, the inspection hole (50) is disposed in a portion of the front panel (23) near the indoor heat exchanger (43). As illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 4, the inspection hole (50) includes a rectangular portion (50 a), and a triangular portion (50 b) that is continuous with one lower corner of the rectangular portion. The triangular portion (50 b) protrudes from the rectangular portion (50 a) toward the second side panel (26). The inspection hole (50) is formed at a position corresponding to the drain pan (60). Detaching the inspection cover (51) from the inspection hole (50) allows the inside of the drain pan (60) to be inspected from the maintenance space (15).

The inspection cover (51) has a shape substantially similar to that of the inspection hole (50), and is slightly larger than the inspection hole (50). The inspection cover (51) has an edge portion having a plurality of (three in this example) fastening holes (52) through which the inspection cover (51) is attached to the casing body (20 a). The inspection cover (51) is fixed to the casing body (20 a) through a plurality of fastening members (for example, bolts) inserted into, and run through, the fastening holes (52). Such a configuration allows the inspection cover (51) to be detachably attached to the casing body (20 a) to open and close the inspection hole (50). That is, the casing (20) includes a casing body (20 a) and an inspection cover (51) (casing member) arranged detachably to the casing body (20 a). The inspection cover (51) is a component arranged detachably to the casing body (20 a).

Stay and Camera

As illustrated in FIG. 5, an inner wall (51 a) of the inspection cover (51) is provided with a stay (53) for supporting a camera (70) on the inspection cover (51). The stay (53) is fixed to the inner wall (51 a) of the inspection cover (51), and constitutes a support member to which the camera (70) is attached.

The stay (53) is fixed to a substantially central portion of the inner wall (51 a) of the inspection cover (51), and extends in the horizontal direction. A base portion of the stay (53) may be welded to, for example, the inspection cover (51), or may be fastened to the inspection cover (51) via a plurality of bolts (fastening members). If the stay (53) is welded to the inspection cover (51), the inspection cover (51) does not have to have any fastening hole. This makes it easy for the inspection cover (51) to reliably have high sealing performance and high thermal insulation properties. On the other hand, if the stay (53) is fastened to the inspection cover (51) via the fastening members (not shown), the relative positions of the stay (53) and the inspection cover (51) can be reliably determined.

A cross section of the stay (53) perpendicular to the length of the stay (53) has a substantially L-shape. More specifically, the stay (53) includes a first plate portion (53 a), and a second plate portion (53 b) substantially perpendicular to the first plate portion (53 a).

In a state where the inspection cover (51) is attached to the casing body (20 a) (hereinafter simply referred to as the “attached state of the inspection cover (51)”), the stay (53) is disposed such that the junction between the first and second plate portions (53 a) and (53 b) faces upward. In the attached state of the inspection cover (51), a lower surface of the first plate portion (53 a) faces the drain pan (60) (strictly speaking, the concave portion (64) of the drain pan (60)).

The camera (70) is detachably attached to the stay (53). The camera (70) constitutes an imaging device for imaging the target drain pan (60) to acquire image data. The camera (70) includes a lens (71) and a light source (72) (flash). The lens is configured as a super-wide-angle lens. A support plate (73) is fixed to the back surface of the camera (70). The support plate (73) is fixed to the first plate portion (53 a) of the stay (53) via a bolt (not shown). As a result, the camera (70) is supported by the stay (53) and thus by the inspection cover (51).

In the attached state of the inspection cover (51), the lens (71) of the camera (70) faces the drain pan (60) (strictly speaking, the concave portion (64) of the drain pan (60)). That is to say, the camera (70) is positioned such that the concave portion (64) of the drain pan (60) can be imaged in the attached state of the inspection cover (51) (see FIG. 3).

Imaging System

An imaging system (S) according to this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 6. The imaging system (S) according to this embodiment includes the camera (70) described above, a power source (18), and a communication terminal (80).

The camera (70) described above is provided in the casing (20) of the indoor unit (11). The camera (70) includes an imaging control unit (74), a storage (75), an ID provider (76), a wireless communication section (77).

The imaging control unit (74) controls an imaging operation of the camera (70) in response to a command to capture an image input from outside. Specifically, in this embodiment, when a signal indicating the command to capture an image is input from the communication terminal (80) to the wireless communication section (77), the camera (70) images a target object. Thus, the camera (70) acquires image data of the object to be imaged (in this embodiment, the drain pan (60)). The imaging control unit (74) includes a microcomputer and a memory device (specifically, a semiconductor memory) that stores software for operating the microcomputer.

The storage (75) stores the acquired image data. The storage (75) includes various memory devices (semiconductor memories).

The ID provider (76) associates ID information corresponding to the image data with the corresponding image data. Examples of the ID information include the date/time of imaging, and the model/location of the air-conditioning device corresponding to the imaged drain pan (60). Thus, the storage (75) stores the image data including these pieces of the ID information.

The wireless communication section (77) is wirelessly connected to the communication terminal (80). The wireless communication section (77) constitutes a wireless transmitter. The wireless communication section (77) is configured as, for example, a wireless router. The wireless communication section (77) is connected to the communication terminal (80) around the air-conditioning device (10) via a wireless LAN. Thus, data can be exchanged between the camera (70) and the communication terminal (80). Specifically, the wireless communication section (77) wirelessly transmits the image data acquired by the camera (70) to the communication terminal (80). The wireless communication section (77) receives a command to capture an image from the communication terminal (80) (e.g., a service provider) as appropriate. The wireless communication section (77) may use a communication line of a mobile high-speed communication technology (for example, LTE).

The power source (18) is provided, for example, inside the electric component box (16) of the air-conditioning device (10). A power source line (85) of the camera (70) is led to the outside of the casing (20) through, for example, the inspection hole (50), and drawn into the electric component box (16) from the outside. Such wiring allows the camera (70) in the casing (20) and the power source (18) in the electric component box (16) to be connected together through the power line (85). Thus, electric power is supplied to the camera (70) from the power source (18). The power source (18) serves also as a power source for other components of the air-conditioning device (10).

The communication terminal (80) is configured as a smartphone, a tablet terminal, a mobile phone, a personal computer, or any other suitable device, which is connectable to a wireless LAN or any other suitable network. The communication terminal (80) includes a microcomputer, software for operating the microcomputer, a memory device serving as a storage, a receiver for receiving image data, and a sender for outputting a predetermined command.

The communication terminal (80) includes an operating unit (81) and a display (82). The service provider or any other operator operates predetermined application software using the operating unit (81), such as a keyboard or a touch panel. On the application software on the display (82), a command for making the camera (70) capture an image can be transmitted, and image data acquired by the camera (70) can be downloaded, for example.

Operation

A basic operation of the air-conditioning device (10) according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 3. The air-conditioning device (10) is configured to be capable of performing a cooling operation and a heating operation.

In the cooling operation, a refrigerant compressed by the compressor of the outdoor unit dissipates heat (condenses) in the outdoor heat exchanger, and is decompressed at an expansion valve. The decompressed refrigerant evaporates in the indoor heat exchanger (43) of the indoor unit (11), and is again compressed by the compressor.

When the fan (40) is operated, room air (RA) in the indoor space is sucked into the air flow path (33) through the suction port (31). The air in the air flow path (33) passes through the indoor heat exchanger (43). In the indoor heat exchanger (43), the refrigerant absorbs heat from the air, thereby cooling the air. The cooled air passes through the blow-out port (32), and is then supplied as supply air (SA) to the indoor space.

Here, if the air is cooled to a temperature equal to or lower than the dew point in the indoor heat exchanger (43), water in the air condenses. The condensed water thus generated is collected in the drain pan (60) as appropriate. The condensed water collected in the drain pan (60) is discharged to the outside of the casing (20) by the drain pump (66).

On the other hand, in the heating operation, a refrigerant compressed by the compressor of the outdoor unit dissipates heat (condenses) in the indoor heat exchanger (43) of the indoor unit (11), and is decompressed at an expansion valve. The decompressed refrigerant evaporates in the outdoor heat exchanger of the outdoor unit, and is again compressed by the compressor. Thus, in the indoor heat exchanger (43), the refrigerant dissipates heat to the air, thereby heating the air.

Checking of State of Drain Pan

In this embodiment, the state of the drain pan (60) described above can be appropriately checked by the imaging system (S).

Specifically, in the attached state of the inspection cover (51), a lens (71) of the camera (70) is directed to the inside the drain pan (60). In this state, a service provider or any other operator operates the communication terminal (80) and inputs a command to capture an image on the application software. As a result, the command to capture an image is output from the communication terminal (80) to the camera (70). When the command to capture an image is input to the wireless communication section (77) of the camera (70), the imaging control unit (74) makes the camera (70) capture an image. During this imaging, a light source (72) starts operating to illuminate the inside of the drain pan (60). Such imaging allows the service provider or any other operator to acquire image data inside the drain pan (60) at the required timing.

The image data stored in the camera (70) in this manner are output to the communication terminal (80) together with the ID information. Thus, the service provider or any other operator can check the image data through the display (82), and can determine the state of the drain pan (60) as appropriate. Specifically, the service provider or any other operator can check the image data to determine the degrees of putrefaction, mold contamination, dirt contamination, and other types of contamination in the condensed water in the drain pan (60), the water level in the drain pan (60), whether or not the drain pipe (67) has been clogged, and whether or not the drain pump (66) has been broken.

Advantages of First Embodiment

The first embodiment allows image data of the inside of the drain pan (60) to be acquired by the camera (70). Thus, the service provider or any other operator can determine the state of the inside of the drain pan (60) without entering space in a ceiling cavity. The image data acquired by the camera (70) is wirelessly transmitted to the communication terminal (80) outside the casing (20). Therefore, the image data can be easily transmitted to the communication terminal (80) which is relatively distant from the camera (70) without providing any transmission line or the like.

As illustrated in FIG. 5, the camera (70) is fixed on a stay (53) in the inspection cover (51) with the casing body (20 a) detached and is aligned by attaching this inspection cover (51) to the casing body (20 a). That is, the camera (70) can be accurately aligned in the casing (20) without any installation operation of the camera (70).

Further, the same structure of attaching the camera (70) to the inspection cover (51) can be employed in an already existing air-conditioning device including no imaging system (S). In this case, only the inspection cover (51) may be replaced or modified without changing the structure of the inside of the casing (20).

Second Embodiment

An air-conditioning device (10) according to a second embodiment has a basic configuration different from that according to the first embodiment. The air-conditioning device (10) according to the second embodiment takes in outdoor air (OA), and adjusts the temperature and humidity of air. The air-conditioning device (10) supplies the air thus treated as supply air (SA) into the room. That is to say, the air-conditioning device (10) is an outside air treatment system. The air-conditioning device (10) includes a humidifying element (45) for humidifying air, for example, in the winter season.

The air-conditioning device (10) is installed in a space in the ceiling cavity. Just like the first embodiment, the air-conditioning device (10) includes an outdoor unit (not shown) and an indoor unit (11), which are connected together through refrigerant pipes to form a refrigerant circuit.

Indoor Unit

As illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 8, the indoor unit (11) includes a casing (20) installed in the ceiling cavity, an air supply fan (40 a), an exhaust fan (40 b), an indoor heat exchanger (43), a total heat exchanger (44), and the humidifying element (45). The casing (20) includes therein a drain pan (60) collecting condensed water generated in the indoor heat exchanger (43), and a drain port (not shown) for discharging water accumulated in the drain pan (60).

Casing

The casing (20) has the shape of a rectangular parallelepiped hollow box. Just like the first embodiment, the casing (20) of the second embodiment includes a top plate (21), a bottom plate (22), a front panel (23), a rear panel (24), a first side panel (25), and a second side panel (26).

The front panel (23) faces a maintenance space (15). The front panel (23) is provided with an electric component box (16), an inspection hole (50), and an inspection cover (51) (which will be described in detail below). The first side panel (25) has an inside air port (34) and an air supply port (35). The inside air port (34) is connected to an inside air duct (not shown). The inlet end of the inside air duct communicates with the indoor space. The air supply port (35) is connected to an air supply duct (not shown). The blow-out end of the air supply duct communicates with the indoor space. The second side panel (26) has an exhaust port (36) and an outside air port (37). The exhaust port (36) is connected to an exhaust duct (not shown). The blow-out end of the exhaust duct communicates with the outdoor space. The outside air port (37) is connected to an outside air duct (not shown). The inlet end of the outside air duct communicates with the outdoor space.

The casing (20) has therein an air supply path (33A) and an exhaust path (33B). The air supply path (33A) extends from the outside air port (37) to the air supply port (35). The exhaust path (33B) extends from the inside air port (34) to the exhaust port (36).

Total Heat Exchanger

The total heat exchanger (44) has a horizontally long quadrangular prism shape. The total heat exchanger (44) includes, for example, two types of sheets alternately stacked in the horizontal direction. The sheets of one of the two types form a first passage (44 a) communicating with the air supply path (33A). The sheets of the other type form a second passage (44 b) communicating with the exhaust path (33B). Each sheet is made of a material having heat transfer and hygroscopic properties. Thus, the total heat exchanger (44) exchanges latent heat and sensible heat between the air flowing through the first passage (44 a) and the air flowing through the second passage (44 b).

Air Supply Fan

The air supply fan (40 a) is disposed in the air supply path (33A) to transfer the air in the air supply path (33A). More specifically, the air supply fan (40 a) is disposed in a portion of the air supply path (33A) between the first passage (44 a) of the total heat exchanger (44) and the indoor heat exchanger (43).

Exhaust Fan

The exhaust fan (40 b) is disposed in the exhaust path (33B) to transfer the air in the exhaust path (33B). More specifically, the exhaust fan (40 b) is disposed in a portion of the exhaust path (33B) downstream of the second passage (44 b) of the total heat exchanger (44).

Indoor Heat Exchanger

The indoor heat exchanger (43) is disposed in a portion of the air supply path (33A) near the front panel (23). The indoor heat exchanger (43) is configured as, for example, a fin-and-tube heat exchanger.

Humidifying Element

The humidifying element (45) is disposed in a portion of the air supply path (33A) near the front panel (23). The humidifying element (45) is disposed in a portion of the air supply path (33A) downstream of the indoor heat exchanger (43). The humidifying element (45) includes a plurality of hygroscopic materials, which extend vertically, and are horizontally arranged. Water from a water supply tank (not shown) is supplied to these hygroscopic materials. The humidifying element (45) gives evaporated air to the air flowing around the hygroscopic materials. The air flowing through the air supply path (33A) is humidified in this manner.

Drain Pan

As schematically illustrated in FIG. 8, the drain pan (60) is installed below the indoor heat exchanger (43) to collect the condensed water generated at the indoor heat exchanger (43). The drain pan (60) according to the second embodiment is disposed below the humidifying element (45). This allows the drain pan (60) to collect water (humidifying water) flowing out of the humidifying element (45).

Electric Component Box

As illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 9, the electric component box (16) is provided on a substantially central portion of a front surface of the front panel (23). The electric component box (16) houses therein electric components similar to those in the first embodiment.

Inspection Hole and Inspection Cover

As illustrated in FIG. 7, the inspection hole (50) is formed in a portion of the front panel (23) near the indoor heat exchanger (43) and the humidifying element (45). The inspection hole (50) is formed at a position corresponding to the drain pan (60) and the humidifying element (45). Detaching the inspection cover (51) from the inspection hole (50) allows the inside of the drain pan (60) and the humidifying element (45) to be inspected from the maintenance space (15).

The inspection cover (51) is attached to the casing body (20 a) through a plurality of fastening members. That is to say, just like the second embodiment, the inspection cover (51) is configured as a casing member (component) detachably arranged in the casing body (20 a) to open and close the inspection hole (50).

Stay and Camera

As illustrated in FIG. 10, an inner wall (51 a) of the inspection cover (51) is provided with a stay (53) for supporting a camera (70) on the inspection cover (51). The stay (53) is fixed to a substantially central portion of the inner wall (51 a) of the inspection cover (51), and extends in the horizontal direction. A base portion of the stay (53) may be welded to, for example, the inspection cover (51), or may be fastened to the inspection cover (51) via a plurality of bolts (fastening members).

The stay (53) of the second embodiment is a sheet metal folded in a stepwise manner. The stay (53) includes a fixing plate portion (54 a), a perpendicular plate portion (54 b), a lateral plate portion (54 c), and a mounting plate portion (54 d), which are connected together in this order from its base portion toward its distal end. The fixing plate portion (54 a) is formed along the inner wall (51 a) of the inspection cover (51), and is fixed to the inner wall (51 a) through a plurality of (in this example, two) fastening members (bolts or any other tools). The perpendicular plate portion (54 b) extends from the inner wall (51 a) of the inspection cover (51) toward the rear panel (24) of the casing (20). The lateral plate portion (54 c) is parallel to the inner wall (51 a) of the inspection cover (51), and extends obliquely upward from the base portion of the stay (53). The mounting plate portion (54 d) extends from the lateral plate portion (54 c) toward the rear panel (24) of the casing (20). The mounting plate portion (54 d) faces obliquely downward so as to be directed to a lowest portion of the bottom portion (63) of the drain pan (60).

The camera (70) is detachably attached to the stay (53). A support plate (73) is fixed to the back surface of the camera (70). The support plate (73) is fixed to the mounting plate portion (54 d) of the stay (53) via bolts (not shown). As a result, the camera (70) is supported by the stay (53) and thus by the inspection cover (51). The basic configuration of the camera (70) is the same as that of the first embodiment.

While the inspection cover (51) is attached to the casing body (20 a), the lens (71) of the camera (70) is directed to the inside of the drain pan (60). That is to say, the camera (70) is positioned such that the inside of the drain pan (60) can be imaged in the attached state of the inspection cover (51).

In the second embodiment, while the inspection cover (51) is attached to the casing body (20 a), the camera (70) is positioned so as to be able to image a portion of the humidifying element (45). In other words, in the second embodiment, the drain pan (60) and the humidifying element (45) are objects to be imaged by the camera (70).

The basic configuration of the imaging system (S) is the same as that of the first embodiment (see FIG. 6).

Operation

A basic operation of the air-conditioning device (10) according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 7 and 8. The air-conditioning device (10) is configured to be capable of performing a cooling operation and a heating operation.

Just like the first embodiment described above, while the indoor heat exchanger (43) serves as an evaporator in the cooling operation, the indoor heat exchanger (43) serves as a condenser (a radiator) in the heating operation. In the heating operation, the humidifying element (45) operates to humidify air. In the cooling operation and the heating operation, when the air supply fan (40 a) and the exhaust fan (40 b) operate, outdoor air (OA) is introduced through the outside air port (37) into the air supply path (33A), and at the same time, room air (RA) is introduced through the inside air port (34) into the exhaust path (33 b). Thus, an indoor space is ventilated.

In the cooling operation, the outdoor air (OA) introduced into the air supply path (33A) flows through the first passage (44 a) of the total heat exchanger (44). Meanwhile, the room air (RA) introduced into the exhaust path (33B) flows through the second passage (44 b) of the total heat exchanger (44). For example, in the summer season, the outdoor air (OA) has a higher temperature and a higher humidity than the room air (RA). For this reason, latent heat and sensible heat of the outdoor air (OA) are given to the room air (RA) in the total heat exchanger (44). As a result, the air is cooled and dehumidified in the first passage (44 a). In the second passage (44 b), the air to which latent heat and sensible heat are given passes through the exhaust port (36), and is discharged as exhaust air (EA) to the outdoor space.

The air cooled and dehumidified in the first passage (44 a) is cooled in the indoor heat exchanger (43), and then passes through the humidifying element (45) at rest. Thereafter, the air passes through the air supply port (35), and is supplied as supply air (SA) to the indoor space.

In the heating operation, the outdoor air (OA) introduced into the air supply path (33A) flows through the first passage (44 a) of the total heat exchanger (44). Meanwhile, the room air (RA) introduced into the exhaust path (33B) flows through the second passage (44 b) of the total heat exchanger (44). For example, in the winter season, the outdoor air (OA) has a lower temperature and a lower humidity than the room air (RA). For this reason, latent heat and sensible heat of the room air (RA) are given to the outdoor air (OA) in the total heat exchanger (44). As a result, the air is heated and humidified in the first passage (44 a). In the second passage (44 b), the air from which latent heat and sensible heat are taken passes through the exhaust port (36), and is discharged as exhaust air (EA) to the outdoor space.

The air heated and humidified in the first passage (44 a) is heated in the indoor heat exchanger (43), and then passes through the humidifying element (45). The humidifying element (45) gives water vaporized through the hygroscopic materials to the air, which is further humidified. The air that has passed through the humidifying element (45) passes through the air supply port (35), and is supplied as supply air (SA) to the indoor space.

Checking of States of Drain Pan and Humidifying Element

In the second embodiment, the state of the drain pan (60) can be checked in the same manner as in the first embodiment. That is, when a command to capture an image is input from the communication terminal (80) to a wireless communication section (77) of a camera (70), the camera (70) captures an image. This allows image data of the inside of the drain pan (60) to be acquired and the state of the drain pan (60) to be determined in the summer season, for example.

When the humidifying element (45) is actuated with the heating operation, scale may generate on and fungi may be grown on the surfaces of the hygroscopic materials. In the second embodiment, image data of the humidifying element (45) can also be acquired by the camera (70). This allows the state of such humidifying element (45) to be easily determined.

Advantages other than these are the same as those of the first embodiment.

Variations of Imaging System

The imaging system (S) according to any of the following variations may be employed in the air-conditioning device (10) according to each embodiment (including the third embodiment to be described later.)

First Variation

The imaging system (S) of the first variation shown in FIG. 11 includes a communication unit (90) separate from a camera (70). The communication unit (90) is disposed outside the casing (20), and is connected to the camera (70) via a transmission line (91). The transmission line (91) is inserted into, and runs through, a wiring through hole of the inspection cover (51), for example. The transmission line (91) is connected to a first transceiver (78) of the camera (70) and a second transceiver (92) of the communication unit (90). Thus, image data and signals can be exchanged between the camera (70) and the communication unit (90).

In the first and second embodiments, the camera (70) includes the storage (75), the ID provider (76), and the wireless communication section (77). In contrast, in the first variation, the communication unit (90) includes a storage (75), an ID provider (76), and a wireless communication section (77). A communication terminal (80) is wirelessly connected to the wireless communication section (77) of the communication unit (90).

In the first variation, a command to capture an image from the communication terminal (80) is wirelessly transmitted to the communication unit (90). This command to capture an image is input to the camera (70) via a transmission line (91). Accordingly, the camera (70) captures an image.

The image data acquired by the camera (70) are input to the communication unit (90) via the transmission line (91), and is stored in the storage (75) as appropriate. At this time, the ID provider (76) associates ID information corresponding to the image data with the image data. The image data including assigned ID information is wirelessly transmitted to the communication terminal (80) as appropriate.

In the first variation, the communication unit (90) wirelessly exchanging data with the communication terminal (80) is provided outside the casing (20). Thus, radio waves between the communication terminal (80) and the communication unit (90) are less likely to interfere with each other. As a result, data are stably transmitted.

Second Variation

In the imaging system (S) of the second variation illustrated in FIG. 12, the communication unit (90) and the communication terminal (80) are connected to a cloud server (95) via the network (N). For example, the image data in the communication unit (90) are sent to the cloud server (95) via the network (N), and is stored in the cloud server (95). The communication terminal (80) can acquire image data from the cloud server (95).

Third Variation

An imaging system (S) of the third variation illustrated in FIG. 13 controls a camera (70) with operation of each component of the air-conditioning device (10). This point is described in detail below.

In the third variation, the electric component box (16) is provided with an air-conditioning control unit (19). The air-conditioning control unit (19) is configured to control the fan (40), the drain pump (66), various components of the refrigerant circuit, and other components as appropriate in the cooling and heating operations described above.

The camera (70) in the third variation is provided with an input section (79). A signal (X) corresponding to an operation command from the air-conditioning control unit (19) is input to the input section (79). The imaging control unit (74) makes the camera (70) capture an image in synchronization with the input of a signal (X) to the input section (79).

First, the timing of imaging by the camera (70) of the imaging system (S) according to the third variation is described below with reference to a timing chart illustrated in FIG. 14. This description is directed to the air-conditioning device (10) according to the first embodiment. Specifically, the camera (70) of this example captures an image before the start of an operation of the fan (40) and before the start of a cooling action of the indoor heat exchanger (43).

The cooling action of the indoor heat exchanger (43) as used herein means an action of cooling air through a refrigerant flowing through the indoor heat exchanger (43) serving as an evaporator. Thus, the state where the indoor heat exchanger (43) is at rest means a state where the refrigerant does not substantially flow through the indoor heat exchanger (43), and air is not cooled. In the air-conditioning device (10), for example, the compressor stops, or the flow of the refrigerant through the indoor heat exchanger (43) is restricted, thereby causing the indoor heat exchanger (43) to be at rest.

As shown in FIG. 14, if a command to start the cooling operation is input to the air-conditioning control unit (19) at the point in time t1, the air-conditioning control unit (19) performs control for operating the fan (40) and control for starting the cooling action of the indoor heat exchanger (43) at the point in time t2 that is ΔTa later than the point in time t1. As a result, the cooling operation is started from the point in time t2.

Meanwhile, the air-conditioning control unit (19) outputs the signal (X) for triggering the camera (70) to capture an image to the camera (70) at the same time as the point in time t1 when the command to start the cooling operation is input. If this signal (X) is input to the input section (79) of the camera (70), the imaging control unit (74) makes the camera (70) capture an image. Thus, the camera (70) acquires image data of the drain pan (60) at substantially the same timing as the command to start the cooling operation. As can be seen from the foregoing description, in this embodiment, the camera (70) captures an image immediately before the start of the operation of the fan (40) and immediately before the start of the cooling action of the indoor heat exchanger (43). In other words, the camera (70) captures an image immediately before the start of the cooling operation.

At the point in time t1 of imaging, the fan (40) and the indoor heat exchanger (43) are at rest. Thus, at the point in time t1, the total power consumed by the air-conditioning device (10) is low. This allows sufficient power to be reliably supplied to the camera (70) from the power source (18).

The fan (40) in operation causes the surface of the condensed water inside the drain pan (60) to be unstable due to the air flow through the drain pan (60) and the influence of vibrations. In contrast, in this embodiment, since the fan (40) is at rest at the point in time t1, the surface of the condensed water inside the drain pan (60) is also stabilized. This can prevent the unstable surface of the condensed water from causing the image data of the drain pan (60) to be blurred.

While the indoor heat exchanger (43) is performing the cooling action, condensed water is easily generated from the air cooled in the indoor heat exchanger (43). Thus, the water surface in the drain pan (60) tends to rise. In contrast, in this example, at the point in time t1, the indoor heat exchanger (43) is at rest. This prevents the cooling action of the indoor heat exchanger (43) from causing the water surface in the drain pan (60) to rise. This can prevent the rising surface of the condensed water from causing the image data of the drain pan (60) to be blurred.

During the period between the previous cooling operation and the next cooling operation (i.e., the period during which the air-conditioning device (10) is at rest), decomposition of the condensed water accumulated in the drain pan (60) and the formation of mold gradually progress. Thus, immediately before the start of the cooling operation, such decomposition of the condensed water and the degree of mold formed tend to be apparent. In this embodiment, the drain pan (60) is imaged at the point in time t1 immediately before the start of the next cooling operation. Thus, the decomposition of the condensed water and the formation of mold are apparent from the image data. This allows the degree of dirt on the drain pan (60) to be more clearly determined.

Other Control Examples of Timing of Imaging Operation

In the foregoing embodiment, the drain pan (60) may be imaged at the timing described below. Note that the timings in the foregoing example and other examples exemplified below may be combined together.

First Control Example

In a first control example, the camera (70) captures an image after the stop of an operation of the fan (40) and after the stop of a cooling action of the indoor heat exchanger (43).

As shown in FIG. 15, if a command to stop a cooling operation is input to the air-conditioning control unit (19) at the point in time t3, the air-conditioning control unit (19) performs control for stopping the fan (40) and control for stopping the cooling action of the indoor heat exchanger (43). As a result, the cooling operation is stopped from the point in time t3.

Meanwhile, the air-conditioning control unit (19) outputs the signal (X) for triggering the camera (70) to capture an image to the camera (70) at the point in time t4 that is ΔTb later than the point in time t3. If this signal (X) is input to the input section (79) of the camera (70), the imaging control unit (74) makes the camera (70) capture an image. Thus, the camera (70) acquires image data of the drain pan (60) at a timing slightly later than the end of the cooling operation. As can be seen from the foregoing description, in this embodiment, the camera (70) captures an image immediately after the end of the operation of the fan (40) and immediately after the end of the cooling action of the indoor heat exchanger (43). In other words, the camera (70) captures an image immediately after the stop of the cooling operation.

At the point in time t4 of imaging according to another first control example, the fan (40) and the indoor heat exchanger (43) are at rest. Thus, just like the foregoing embodiment, the total power consumed by the air-conditioning device (10) is low. This allows sufficient power to be reliably supplied to the camera (70) from the power source (18). Further, since the fan (40) and the indoor heat exchanger (43) are at rest, the water surface in the drain pan (60) is stabilized during imaging.

The indoor heat exchanger (43) performs a cooling action, and condensed water is thus highly likely to be generated from air, until immediately before the point in time t4. Thus, at the point in time t4, the condensed water is basically accumulated inside the drain pan (60). Thus, acquiring the image data of the drain pan (60) at the point in time t4 allows the state of the condensed water inside the drain pan (60) to be checked.

Second Control Example

In a second control example, the camera (70) captures an image after the stop of an operation of the drain pump (66). Here, the drain pump (66) is operated at the same time as the start of the cooling operation, for example, and is stopped immediately after the stop of the cooling operation. Alternatively, the drain pump (66) may be intermittently operated using a timer or any other tool, or may be operated if the water level in the drain pan (60) exceeds a predetermined level.

As shown in FIG. 16, for example, if a command to stop the drain pump (66) is issued at the point in time t5, the air-conditioning control unit (19) performs control for stopping the drain pump (66) at the point in time t5. In this case, the air-conditioning control unit (19) outputs the signal (X) to the input section (79) of the camera (70) at the point in time t6 that is ΔTc later than the point in time t5. Thus, at a point in time t6 immediately after the stop of the drain pump (66), the camera (70) captures an image.

At the point in time t6 of imaging according to another second control example, the drain pump (66) is at rest. Thus, just like the foregoing embodiment, the total power consumed by the air-conditioning device (10) is low. This allows sufficient power to be reliably supplied to the camera (70) from the power source (18).

The drain pump (66) in operation causes the surface of the condensed water inside the drain pan (60) to be unstable due to the suction of the condensed water into the drain pump (66) and vibrations of the drain pump (66). In contrast, since the drain pump (66) is at rest at the point in time t6, the surface of the condensed water inside the drain pan (60) is also stabilized. This can prevent the unstable surface of the condensed water from causing the acquired image data to be blurred.

The condensed water inside the drain pan (60) is drained until immediately before the stop of the operation of the drain pump (66). Thus, immediately after the stop of the operation of the drain pump (66), the condensed water should not be accumulated so much in the drain pan (60). Nevertheless, if a relatively large amount of condensed water is present inside the drain pan (60), the drain pump (66) may be broken, or a drain pipe may be clogged. Thus, imaging the inside of the drain pan (60) at the point in time t6 allows the foregoing problems and similar problems associated with a structure for draining the condensed water to be detected.

Third Control Example

In a third control example, the camera (70) captures an image before the start of an operation of the drain pump (66). As shown in FIG. 10, for example, if a command to operate the drain pump (66) is issued at the point in time t7, the air-conditioning control unit (19) performs control for operating the drain pump (66) at the point in time t8 that is 66 Td later than the point in time t7. Meanwhile, the air-conditioning control unit (19) outputs the signal (X) to the input section (79) of the camera (70) at the point in time t7. Thus, at the point in time t7 immediately before the operation of the drain pump (66), the camera (70) captures an image.

At the point in time t7 of imaging according to another third control example, the drain pump (66) is at rest. Thus, just like the foregoing embodiment, the total power consumed by the air-conditioning device (10) is low. This allows sufficient power to be reliably supplied to the camera (70) from the power source (18). Further, the surface of the condensed water in the drain pan (60) is also stabilized.

The condensed water is accumulated inside the drain pan (60) until before the start of the operation of the drain pump (66). Thus, the camera (70) capturing an image at the point in time t7 allows the state of the condensed water inside the drain pan (60) to be easily determined.

Fourth Control Example

The fourth control example is applied to the heating operation of the second embodiment described above. The camera (70) of the second embodiment captures an image before the start of operations of the fans (the air supply fan (40 a) and the exhaust fan (40 b)), before the start of a heating action of the indoor heat exchanger (43), and before the start of an operation of the humidifying element (45).

As shown in FIG. 18, if a command to start the heating operation is input to the air-conditioning control unit (19) at the point in time t9, the air-conditioning control unit (19) performs control for operating the air supply fan (40 a) and the exhaust fan (40 b), control for starting the heating action of the indoor heat exchanger (43), and control for operating the humidifying element (45) at the point in time t10 that is ΔTe later than the point in time t9. As a result, the heating operation is started from the point in time t10.

Further, the air-conditioning control unit (19) output a signal (X) for making the camera (70) capture an image to the camera (70) at the time point t9 at which the heating operation start command is input. If this signal (X) is input to the input section (79) of the camera (70), the imaging control unit (74) makes the camera (70) capture an image. Thus, the camera (70) acquires image data of the drain pan (60) and the humidifying element (45) at substantially the same timing as the command to start the heating operation.

At the point in time t9, the air supply fan (40 a), the exhaust fan (40 b), the indoor heat exchanger (43), and the humidifying element (45) are at rest. Thus, at the point in time t9, the total power consumed by the air-conditioning device (10) is low. This allows sufficient power to be reliably supplied to the camera (70) from the power source (18). Further, the surface of humidifying water in the drain pan (60) is also stabilized at the point in time t9.

During the period between the previous heating operation and the next heating operation (i.e., the period during which the air-conditioning device (10) is at rest), the formation of scale and mold on the hygroscopic materials of the humidifying element (45) progresses. Thus, immediately before the start of the heating operation, the degree of such scale and mold formed tend to be apparent. In the second embodiment, the humidifying element (45) is imaged at the point in time t9 immediately before the start of the next heating operation. Thus, the formation of scale and mold is apparent from the image data of the humidifying element (45). This allows the degree of dirt on the humidifying element (45) to be more clearly determined.

Fourth Variation

In the fourth variation illustrated in FIG. 19, a cloud server (95) of an imaging system (S) according to the third variation is provided with a determiner (96). The determiner (96) automatically determines the state of an object to be imaged, based on the image data acquired by the camera (70). The determiner (96) may be included in the communication unit (90), the camera (70), or the communication terminal (80). In the fourth variation, the image data is acquired with the start (including the stop) of the operation of the air-conditioning device (10) in the same manner as in the third variation.

If the camera (70) acquires image data on the inside of the object to be imaged in conjunction with the operation of the air-conditioning device (10), the image data are sent to the cloud server (95) via the communication unit (90). The determiner (96) of the cloud server (95) determines the state of the object to be imaged, based on these image data. Here, the determiner (96) is implemented through, for example, use of deep learning as an artificial intelligence (AI) function. Thus, the determiner (96) can determine the degree of dirt on the drain pan (60) and the humidifying element (45), for example. The determiner (96) may determine the degree of dirt on the drain pan (60) and the humidifying element (45) in the future. The determination result of the determiner (96) is transmitted to, for example, the communication terminal (80). Thus, the service provider or any other operator can determine the current or future state of the object to be imaged via the communication terminal (80). Therefore, the maintenance schedule can be planned on the basis of such information.

The image data based on which a determination is made by the determiner (96) are acquired at regular intervals in conjunction with the air-conditioning device (10) as described above. This can eliminate causes of error in the image data used for the AI, and can improve the determination accuracy. Acquiring the image data, in particular, in the shown states of the components described above can reliably eliminate the causes of error in the image data arising from the air flow or vibrations.

Fifth Variation

In the fifth variation, the wire (internal wire (56)) on the camera (imaging device (70)) side is connected to the external wire (86) via a first connector (56 a) and a second connector (86 a). As schematically illustrated in FIG. 20, one end of the internal wire (56) is connected to the camera (70). The internal wire (56) passes through an insertion hole (27) provided in the casing (20) and extends to the outside of the casing (20). In this example, the insertion hole (27) is formed in an inspection cover (51). The casing (20) may be provided with a member such as a lid for closing a gap between the inner periphery of the insertion hole (27) and the internal wire (56).

The other end of the internal wire (56) of the camera (70) in this example is disposed outside the casing (20). The other end of the casing (20) is provided with the first connector (56 a). For example, one end of the external wire (86) is connected to a power source (18) inside the electric component box (16). The external wire (86) extends to the outside of the electric component box (16). The other end of the external wire (86) is disposed outside the electric component box (16). The other end of the external wire (86) is provided with the second connector (86 a).

In the fifth variation, the first connector (56 a) and the second connector (86 a) are coupled with each other outside the casing (20). By the coupling, the internal wire (56) of the camera (70) and the external wire (86) are connected to each other, thereby enabling power to be supplied to the camera (70). The internal wire (56) and the external wire (86) may be transmission lines for exchanging image data or various signals, or may be cables capable of performing both power supply and transmission.

When the internal wire (56) and the external wire (86) are used for transmission, a wireless communication section (77) (for example, a wireless LAN adapter) is disposed in an electric component box (16), and the wireless communication section (77) and the electric component box (16) are connected to each other. Thus, image data or various signals can be exchanged between the camera (70) and the wireless communication section (77) in a wired manner. As described above, image data or various signals are wirelessly exchanged between the wireless communication section (77) and the communication terminal (80).

In the fifth variation, as described above, the internal wire (56) of the camera (70) extends to the outside of the casing (20), and the other end of the internal wire (56) is provided with a first connector (56 a). Therefore, the internal wire (56) can be easily connected and detached without accessing the inside of the casing (20). The first connector (56 a) of the internal wire (56) and the second connector (86 a) of the external wire (86) may be coupled to each other inside the electric component box (16).

Sixth Variation

It is possible to employ a configuration where a contact of the internal wire (56) and a contact of the external wire (86) are connected to each other when the inspection cover (51) (casing member) is fitted to the casing body (20 a). Specifically, for example, a first contact connected to the other end of the internal wire (56) is provided on an outer edge of the inspection cover (51). Then, a second contact connected to the other end of the external wire (86) is provided on an edge of the opening in the inspection hole (50). When the inspection cover (51) is fitted to the inspection hole (50), the first contact on the inspection cover (51) and the second contact on the casing body (20 a) are brought into contact with each other. Thus, with the fitting of the inspection cover (51) to the inspection hole (50), the internal wire (56) on the camera (70) side can be electrically connected to the external wire (86). Accordingly, the operation for connecting the internal wire (56) and the external wire (86) can be omitted.

Seventh Variation

The air-conditioning device (10) of the seventh variation includes a mirror (57) for projecting a mirror image of a target object toward a camera (70). In an example schematically illustrated in FIG. 21, a drain pan (60) is the object to be imaged. In this example, another part (C) is interposed between the lens (71) of the camera (70) and the drain pan (60). Therefore, the part (C) becomes an obstacle of the camera (70), and the camera (70) cannot directly images the drain pan (60). In contrast, in this example, a mirror (57) is disposed in front of the camera (70) in the imaging direction, and a mirror image of the drain pan (60) is projected on the mirror (57). That is, relative positions of the camera (70), the object to be imaged, and the mirror (57) are set in such a manner that the mirror image of the drain pan (60) projected on the mirror (57) is formed toward the camera (70). In other words, the direction in which light directed from the camera (70) to the mirror (57) is reflected by the mirror (57) is directed toward the drain pan (60). Thus, even when a predetermined part (C) is interposed between the camera (70) and the drain pan (60), the camera (70) can indirectly image the drain pan (60) via the mirror (57).

The mirror (57) may be a commonly used mirror formed by depositing a metal such as aluminum or silver on a glass surface, or may be a so-called metal mirror having a mirror surface formed by polishing a metal.

Eighth Variation

In the air-conditioning device (10) of the eighth variation, the relative positions of a camera (70) and a reflective portion (R) are set to reduce an influence of reflected light from a light source (72) of the camera (70). In an example schematically illustrated in FIG. 22, a drain pan (60) is an object to be imaged. The reflective portion (R) is located on the back side of the drain pan (60) in the imaging direction of the camera (70). The reflective portion (R) is formed of a metal material on which light easily reflects, such as a stainless steel plate. In this example, the angle between the imaging direction of the camera (70) and the perpendicular (p) to the reflection surface of the reflective portion (R) (θa in FIG. 22) is set to a predetermined angle. In the case in which θa is 10° or less, when light emitted from the light source (72) of the camera (70) is reflected on the reflective portion (R) at the time of imaging, the reflected light falls within the imaging area of the camera (70), so that image data may be blurred. In particular, when the camera (70) performs processing in accordance with light such as automatic exposure adjustment, image data is strongly influenced by the reflected light, so that image data tends to be blurred. In contrast, in the case in which θa is larger than 10°, the reflection light can be prevented from entering the imaging area of the camera (70), so that the above problem can be avoided. The angle θa is preferably larger than 0° and smaller than 80°.

Other Configuration of Camera

The camera (70) in the present embodiment may also be configured as follows.

Adjustment Mechanism (Swinging Mechanism)

As illustrated in FIG. 23, an adjustment mechanism (100) (swinging mechanism) for changing the imaging direction of the camera (70) may be provided. The adjustment mechanism (100) of this example includes a ball joint (101). The ball joint (101) includes a first joint (110) fixed to a stay (53) (not shown) and a second joint (120) fixed to the camera (70).

The first joint (110) includes a rod (111) supported by the stay (53) (not shown) and a socket (112) provided at the tip of the rod (111). The socket 112 has a shape in which a part of a hollow sphere is cut off, and a substantially spherical fitting concave portion (113) is formed inside thereof. A plurality of notch grooves (114) (four in this example) are formed on the peripheral portion of the open end of the fitting concave portion (113). The notch grooves (114) are arranged in the circumferential direction at equal spaces. The number of the notch grooves (114) is not limited to the number stated above, and the notch grooves (114) may also be omitted.

The second joint (120) includes a rotary shaft (121) coupled with the camera (70) and a ball (122) provided at the tip of the rotary shaft (121). The ball (122) fits into the fitting concave portion (113) of the socket (112). The ball (122) is held in the socket (112) in a spherical contact with the fitting concave portion (113). That is, the ball (122) is freely rotatable in the fitting concave portion (113). The rotary shaft (121) can tilt with the ball (122) and rotate about the center of the rotary shaft (121). Further, the rotary shaft (121) can engage with each notch groove (114) in the socket (112). The rotary shaft (121) can be positioned by engaging the rotary shaft (121) with the notch groove (114).

With this configuration, the camera (70) can turn 360° around the center of the rod (111), and can change the tilt angle with respect to the center of the rod (111). Accordingly, the imaging direction of the camera (70) can be adjusted, as appropriate, according to the position of the object to be imaged.

Damping Member

A damping member is preferably interposed between a camera (70) and a component (such as an inspection cover (51)) to which the camera (70) is attached. Thus, the vibration on the casing (20) side can be prevented from being transmitted to the camera (70). This can avoid image data acquired by the camera (70) from being blurred due to the influence of the vibration.

Waterproof Structure

The camera (70) preferably has a waterproof structure for suppressing water penetration into the inside. For example, the periphery of the camera (70) is covered with a waterproof member. This can avoid the camera (70) to be broken due to the influence of water (for example, condensed water, humidifying water, or the like) in the casing (20).

Lens Type

The lens (71) of the camera (70) is preferably a wide-angle lens or a fisheye lens. The wide-angle lens herein also includes a so-called super-wide-angle lens having a wider angle of view than a commonly used wide-angle lens. The angle of view of the fisheye lens is 180° or more, preferably 220° or more. Since the wide-angle lens and the fisheye lens have a wider angle of view than a conventional lens, the target object can be imaged over a wide range even if the distance between the lens (71) and the target object is relatively short.

Automatic Processing

The camera (70) preferably includes an automatic processing unit for performing various kinds of automatic processing. Specifically, the automatic processing unit execute at least one of an auto-focus function, an automatic exposure adjustment function, or a white balance adjustment function.

Light Source

As illustrated in FIG. 24, the camera (70) includes a light source (72) (flash) for illuminating an object to be imaged. The light source (72) is provided behind the lens (71) of the camera (70) in the imaging direction. When the light source (72) is located in front of the lens (71), the light source (72) may directly enter the imaging area of the camera (70), and image data may be blurred due to the influence of light. In contrast, when the light source (72) is provided behind the lens (71), the light source (72) can be avoided from directly entering the imaging area of the camera (70). This can avoid the image data from being blurred due to the influence of the light source (72).

If the light of the light source (72) is too intense, the reflected light incident on the lens (71) is also intense, so that the image data may be blurred due to halation. Thus, a translucent material such as obscure glass (frosted glass) may be used as glass for covering a light emitter of the light source (72).

Third Embodiment

The air-conditioning device (10) according to the third embodiment is a ceiling hanging-type or ceiling embedded-type air-conditioning device. The air-conditioning device (10) includes an outdoor unit (not shown) and an indoor unit (11), and a refrigerant circuit is formed by connecting the outdoor unit and the indoor unit (11) via a refrigerant pipe.

As illustrated in FIG. 25, the indoor unit (11) includes a casing (20) installed a ceiling cavity. That is, the casing (20) includes a rectangular plate-shaped casing body (20 a) having a lower opening surface and a panel (130) (casing member) provided detachably to the casing body (20 a) so as to close the opening surface. The panel (130) includes a rectangular frame-shaped panel body (131) and an intake grille (132) provided at the center of the panel body (131).

A suction port (31) is formed in the center of the panel body (131). The intake grille (132) is attached to the suction port (31). A blow-out port (32) is formed in each of four side edges of the panel body (131). The blow-out ports (32) extend along the respective side edges. A wind direction adjusting flap (133) is provided in each of the blow-out ports (32).

The casing body (20 a) houses therein a bell mouth (134), an indoor fan (40), an indoor heat exchanger (43), and a drain pan (60). The bell mouth (134) and the indoor fan (40) are disposed above the intake grille (132). The indoor heat exchanger (43) is disposed over the indoor fan (40). The indoor heat exchanger (43) is configured as a fin-and-tube heat exchanger. The drain pan (60) is disposed below the indoor heat exchanger (43).

In the example of FIG. 25, the camera (70) is attached to the drain pan (60) via the stay (53). That is, in this example, the drain pan (60) is configured as a component detachably attached to the casing body (20 a). An object to be imaged by the camera (70) in this example is a drain pan (60). That is, in the present example, the drain pan (60) which is a component serves also as an object to be imaged.

In this example, with the panel (130) detached, the drain pan (60) is detached to the outside of the casing body (20 a). A camera (70) is attached to the drain pan (60) via a stay (53). At this time, the relative position between the camera (70) and the drain pan (60) and the imaging direction of the camera (70) are adjusted. The drain pan (60) in this state is attached to the casing body (20 a). This allows the camera (70) to be accurately aligned in the casing (20) without any installation operation of the camera (70).

Arrangement of Imaging Device Considering Air Flow

In the camera (70) which is an imaging device inside the casing (20), the flow velocity of surrounding air is preferably relatively low. Specifically, the camera (70) is disposed at a position at which air at a flow velocity that is 30% of an average flow velocity Va of air blown out of the blow-out port (32) of the air-conditioning device (10) flows. When the flow velocity of air around the camera (70) is excessively large, dust and the like in the air easily adhere to the surface of the lens (71) of the camera (70), and the lens (71) becomes easily dirty. In contrast, when the flow velocity of air around the camera (70) is 30% or less of the average flow velocity Va of the blown air, the dirt on the lens (71) can be reduced.

The lens (71) of the camera (70) preferably faces the leeward side (downstream side of the air flow). In this manner, dust and the like in the air hardly adhere to the lens (71), so that the dirt on the lens (71) can be reduced. With the lens (71) facing the leeward side, the flow velocity of the air around the lens (71) is preferably 30% or less of the average flow velocity Va.

The lens (71) of the camera (70) may face the upwind side (upstream side of the air flow). In this case, a fisheye lens (spherical lens) is preferably used as the lens (71) of the camera (70).

Other Variations of Drain Pan

The water level of the drain pan (60) can be detected using halation such as described above. Specifically, when the water level in the drain pan (60) reaches a predetermined level (for example, the upper limit of the water level), relative positions of the camera (70) and the drain pan (60) are set so that halation occurs. Accordingly, it becomes possible to determine that the water level of the drain pan (60) reaches a predetermined water level on the basis of image data involving halation occurred.

A float or the like may be provided inside the drain pan (60), or scale or a mark may be attached to the inner wall of the drain pan (60). This allows the water level of the drain pan (60) in the image data to be determined easily.

A light emitting paint which emits light by ultraviolet rays may be applied to the inner wall of the drain pan (60), and the light emitting paint may be irradiated with ultraviolet (UV) lamp or the like. When the drain pan (60) is imaged in a state in which the light-emitting paint emits bright light, dirt or biofilm in the drain pan (60) becomes black. This allows the dirt and biofilm in the drain pan (60) to be easily determined in the image data.

The camera (70) may be disposed such that the lens (71) of the camera (70) corresponds to a predetermined water level in the drain pan (60). In this case, when the water level of the drain pan (60) reaches the predetermined water level, the lens (71) is soaked in water, and image data in this state is acquired. It is thus determined that the water level in the drain pan (60) reaches the predetermined height on the basis of this image data.

Variations of Components provided in Imaging Device

The component to be provided with the imaging device (70) is not limited to the examples described above and may be another component as long as it can be detachably provided in the casing body (20 a).

Specifically, examples of the component include a drain pump (66), a valve (electromagnetic valve) connected to the water pipe, a valve (for example, an electromagnetic valve or an expansion valve) connected to the refrigerant pipe, and a float switch. In the second embodiment described above, examples of the component include a humidifying element (45), a water supply tank of the humidifying element (45) and a lid of the water supply tank. Further, in the third embodiment described above, examples of the component include the electric component box installed in the casing (20) and the panel (130) (the panel body (131) and the intake grille (132)). These components are parts that are easily detached from the casing body (20 a) when the maintenance is performed at a relatively high frequency. Therefore, when these components are provided with the imaging device (70), the imaging devices (70) can be easily installed in the casing (20).

Variations of Object to be Imaged

The objects to be imaged by the imaging device (70) may be other than the drain pan (60) and the humidifying element (45). The objects may be, for example, a drain pump (66), an air filter, a heat exchanger (for example, indoor heat exchanger (43)), a fan (40), a drain port (including also a drain port in the drain pan (60)), and a water surface (water level) in the drain pan (60).

As described above, water (humidifying water) flowing out of the humidifying element (45) is collected in the drain pan (60) of the second embodiment. When the humidifying element (45) does not operate normally, redundant humidifying water does not flow to the drain port of the drain pan (60). Whether the humidifying element (45) operates normally can be determined by determining the presence or absence of water in the vicinity of the drain port of the drain pan (60) from image data.

Other Embodiments

All the above-described embodiments may be modified as follows.

The imaging device (70) should not be limited to a camera, and may be, for example, an optical sensor or the like.

The imaging control unit (74) of the imaging device (70) may not necessarily be provided on the camera (70) side, and may be provided on the communication unit (90) side illustrated in FIG. 11, for example. Further, the camera (70) may start the imaging operation by turning ON the camera (70) (supplying current to the camera (70)). In this case, the camera (70) may be controlled such that current is applied to the camera (70) at the timing at which the camera (70) starts the imaging operation.

The imaging device (70) is used in a casing (20) of an indoor unit (11) installed in the ceiling cavity, but may be used in a casing of a floor-mounted, wall-mounted, or ceiling-suspended indoor unit, or any other type of indoor unit. The imaging device (70) may be applied to the casing of the outdoor unit.

The various imaging timings shown in the cooling operation and the heating operation described above may be combined in any pattern within a practicable range.

The imaging device (70) may be used in air processing devices other than the air-conditioning device (10). Examples of the other air processing devices include a humidity control apparatus for controlling the humidity of air, a ventilation apparatus for ventilating the interior of the room, and an air purification apparatus for purifying the air.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

The present invention is useful for air processing devices.

DESCRIPTION OF REFERENCE CHARACTERS

-   10 Air-conditioning Device (Air processing device) -   20 Casing -   20 a Casing Body (Body) -   40 Fan (Object to Be Imaged) -   43 Indoor Heat Exchanger (Object to Be Imaged) -   45 Humidifying Element (Object to Be Imaged, Component) -   50 Inspection hole -   51 Inspection Cover (Casing Member, Component) -   51 a Inner Wall -   53 Support Member -   56 Wire (Internal Wire) -   56 a First Connector (Connector) -   60 Drain Pan (Object to Be Imaged) -   66 Drain Pump (Object to Be Imaged) -   70 Camera (Imaging Device) -   71 Lens -   72 Light Source -   77 Wireless Communication Section -   80 Receiver -   86 External Wire -   91 Transmission Line -   131 Panel Body (Casing Member, Component) 

1. An air processing device comprising: a casing; a component detachably provided on a body of the casing; and an imaging device that acquires image data of at least one predetermined object to be imaged in the casing, the imaging device being supported by the component so as to be at a position at which the imaging device can image the at least one object to be imaged.
 2. The air processing device of claim 1, wherein the casing includes the body and a casing member detachably provided in the body, and the component include a casing member.
 3. The air processing device of claim 2, wherein the casing member is an inspection cover that opens and closes an inspection hole of the casing.
 4. The air processing device of claim 2, further comprising a support that is fixed to an inner wall of the casing member and to which the imaging device is attached.
 5. The air processing device of claim 4, wherein the support is welded to the inner wall of the casing member.
 6. The air processing device of claim 4, wherein the support is fastened to the inner wall of the casing member with at least two fastening members.
 7. The air processing device of claim 1, further comprising a wireless communication section that wirelessly transmits image data acquired by the imaging device to the outside of the casing.
 8. The air processing device of claim 1, further comprising: a transmission line that transmits image data acquired by the imaging device to the outside of the casing in a wired manner; and a wireless communication section that wirelessly transmits output data from the transmission line to a predetermined receiving unit, the wireless communication section being disposed outside the casing.
 9. The air processing device of claim 1, further comprising a wire one end of which is connected to the imaging device and that is extended to the outside of the casing, wherein the other end of the wire is provided with a connector coupled with an external wire.
 10. The air processing device of claim 1, wherein the imaging device includes a wide-angle or fisheye lens.
 11. The air processing device of claim 1, wherein the imaging device includes a lens and a light source located behind the lens in the imaging direction.
 12. The air processing device of claim 1, wherein the at least one object to be imaged includes at least one of a drain pan, a drain port, a drain pump, a float switch, or a humidifying element.
 13. The air processing device of claim 1, wherein the imaging device is disposed at a position at which air at a flow velocity that is 30% of an average flow velocity Va of air blown out of the casing flows.
 14. The air processing device of claim 1, wherein the lens of the imaging device faces downstream of the air flow.
 15. The air processing device of claim 3, further comprising a support that is fixed to an inner wall of the casing member and to which the imaging device is attached.
 16. The air processing device of claim 2, wherein the at least one object to be imaged includes at least one of a drain pan, a drain port, a drain pump, a float switch, or a humidifying element.
 17. The air processing device of claim 3, wherein the at least one object to be imaged includes at least one of a drain pan, a drain port, a drain pump, a float switch, or a humidifying element. 